Employee of the Month: Belize

Let me introduce you to one of the special ladies who help make your milk and cheese all possible – Belize, our Employee of the Month at Clover Creek Cheese Cellar.

You might spot her striking reddish-brown spotted coat catching the morning sun as she grazes on our stored hay on one of the rare sunny days this winter.

A history of Meuse-Rhine-Issel cattle

Let’s dive into the rich history behind Belize’s remarkable breed – the Meuse-Rhine-Issel (MRI) cattle.

Originating in the lush borderlands of Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium, MRI cattle have been agricultural superstars since the late 19th century.

These cattle emerged from careful crossbreeding between local Dutch and German dairy breeds. They created a powerhouse of milk production and adaptability.

Farmers in the Rhine and Meuse river valleys wanted a cow that could thrive in challenging terrain while producing exceptional milk – and they succeeded brilliantly.

By the early 1900s, these cattle became known for their striking reddish-brown coats and incredible milk yields. They became a prized breed for dairy farmers across Western Europe.

About Belize

You might recognize our Employee of the Month by the playful glint in her eye – that’s Belize, our beloved troublemaker.

Every summer, you’ll catch her doing what she does best – trying to outsmart our farm crew during the morning pasture rotation.

While we were opening the temporary fence (you know, at our normal human pace), Belize decided she simply couldn’t wait for another second to reach that fresh grass on the other side.

You’d think after five years on our farm (that’s the same as a 33-year-old human), she’d have learned patience, but that’s just part of her charm.

When she’s not keeping us on our toes with her fence-testing antics, this March 19th baby is one of our star milk producers.

You’ll often find her leading the herd to the best grazing spots.

Just as you carefully select the finest ingredients for your family’s favorite recipes, we make sure Belize and her pasture pals have access to the sweetest grass and cleanest water.

Next time you’re preparing a cheese board for your weekend gathering, think of our spirited Belize, probably out there right now, plotting her next great escape attempt while producing the pure, wholesome milk that becomes your family’s favorite cheese.

She’s more than just our Employee of the Month – she’s a reminder that the best things in life come from happy animals, healthy land, and a little bit of playful spirit.

Because at Clover Creek, we believe that when you know the personality behind your cheese, every bite tells a story – and Belize certainly makes sure hers is worth telling!

So here’s to Belize, our fence-testing, grass-munching, milk-producing superstar, helping us bring a taste of our farm’s joy to your family’s special moments.